Regents Approve Kennesaw State, Southern Polytechnic Consolidation

The University System of Georgia Board of Regents voted today to consolidate Kennesaw State University and Southern Polytechnic State University.

This action will be implemented over the next year, with final board approval of the new institution coming in January 2015, following the approval by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools at its December 2014 meeting.

“This is a decision that will strengthen both institutions’ ability to serve students and to ensure we can direct resources appropriately into the academic mission,” said Board Chairman Dink NeSmith. “With this consolidation, all of our guiding principles have been addressed as we plan for how to best meet future needs in Georgia for public higher education. I’m excited about the future potential for the new Kennesaw State University.”

“This decision is the right move in the long-term interests of students and the state,” said Huckaby. “The new Kennesaw State University will be in a strong position to broaden its academic and research mission and expand its scope not just locally and statewide, but nationally. We are confident that the unique degree programs at Southern Polytechnic will be enhanced and strengthened.”

An implementation team with representatives from both institutions to work out the many details associated with consolidating the two universities will be formed immediately. The implementation team will prepare and submit the required documents to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.